GM Erich's Death on the Ice (5-9) (Inactive)

Game Master Thereus, Silver Crusader


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Grand Lodge

Fate in the Future ||| xxx2 ||| xxx3

You will begin the scenario in Iceferry, just across the river from Kalsgard, the largest settlement in the Land of the Linnorm Kings. Currently you all have gathered in the anteroom just outside the Venture Captain's office and are awaiting his secretary to open the door for your briefing.

Feel free to begin your character introductions and we will begin in earnest on the 30th.

Liberty's Edge

Male Gnome Summoner 9 [ HP 84/84 | AC 22/14/19 | Fort +10, Ref +10, Will +10 (+2 vs. illusions) | Init +4 | Perception +10] {mage armor} Summons-V 3/9 - {bralani 84/84 } Whiskers 66/66 AC27 {I summoned, -1 neg level }

Um, am I in the right place?

Is a voice heard from a small a young gnome poking his head into the office from outside the room.

He is casually dressed, in clothes that do not seem to fit, and maybe have been slept in more than once too often. His hair is badly in need of a comb, but he seems oblivious to his appearance while his eyes dart back and forth from his strange green cat, to the sky and back. His mind is definitely not focused on the here and now, as he smiles caught in his own thoughts.

I am usually late, so this is...well, very unusual for me at least. For once I did not over sleep. I heard someone mention Ice Faeries. Like a real one? I always loved to see creatures from the land of fey.

He seems a bit uncomfortable by the lack of other agents.

Whiskers, I hope it is not just going to be us. Well, not that I have anything against us. In fact, I am quite fond of us. But I like having others to talk to on the adventures besides us. Because I already know all of our stories. And I am sure others are eager to hear our stories as I am to hear theirs.

He taps his foot for a few seconds looking out the window, for what feels like an eternity.

Sovereign Court

CG Elf Arcanist 9 | HP: 65/65 | AC: 18(19) (T: 13, F: 15(16)) | CMB: +3, CMD: 16 | F: +6, R: +7, W: +8 | Init: +9 | Perc: +12 | Speed 30 | Arcane Reservoir remaining: 7/15 | Low-light vision | Reroll | Conditions: Mage Armor

"Gah! Useless adept nearly spilled his ink bottle on my book!" A skinny elf curses as he marches into the room, still flipping through his spellbook. "Did I miss the briefing? No? Good. Buy new magic, they said. It'll make you stronger, they said. Ugh. Those stuffy scroll merchants need to learn to take no for an answer." He throws his hands up in dismissal.

"Right, introductions. I'm Erlathan. Please, don't ... mind the appearance." A closer look at his face reveals a set of tentacles hanging from his chin. His canine teeth are vampirically sharp, and you can't help but notice the many bald spots underneath his long hair.

"Ah, a cat. Perhaps he is your familiar?" Erlathan gazes at the gnome. "I chose not to have one, pets are much too dirty for my tastes. And does this mean you must carry around a litter box as well, or does it relieve itself wherever it wishes?" The mage's face twists as if horrified.

Liberty's Edge

Male Human Inquisitor of Erastil 9 [hp 69/69; F+11, R+12, W+11 (+2 vs. charms); AC 22/15/17; Init +7, Perception +14, Sense Motive +16]

A short Andoran man walks in. Despite the his relaxed manner, it's obvious he has a military bearing. He carries a quiver, but no bow that you can see. "Animals can be wonderful and loyal companions. But they deserve real respect. If you expect loyalty, you need to give it too. Even a small cat like that can rip you to shreds if you disrespect it."

He smiles. "I'm Captain Kargen Hapspring, Eagle Knight and Hunter of Erastil." He rolls up his sleeves a bit and you notice a arrow-shaped tattoo on his forearm.

Liberty's Edge

Male Gnome Summoner 9 [ HP 84/84 | AC 22/14/19 | Fort +10, Ref +10, Will +10 (+2 vs. illusions) | Init +4 | Perception +10] {mage armor} Summons-V 3/9 - {bralani 84/84 } Whiskers 66/66 AC27 {I summoned, -1 neg level }

Well, a pleasure to meet you both. I am Wembly. And well, Whisker's ain't exactly a real cat. At least not from around here. Well, not here but on Golarion. But as far as his bodily functions, he can take care of that when I send him to his plane. We are bonded by these green gems on our foreheads. Not sure why, but we are. So he is not really a familiar in the true sense of the word like a wizard would have.

He turns to Kargen. A captain? Well, that is awesome. I haven't traveled with anyone with a military background as an officer before. I mean I talk to venture-captains all the time, well like we are probably about to do, but like a real army captain, that is great!

Liberty's Edge

Male Human Inquisitor of Erastil 9 [hp 69/69; F+11, R+12, W+11 (+2 vs. charms); AC 22/15/17; Init +7, Perception +14, Sense Motive +16]

Kargen chuckles. "You might be lucky then. Half the ones I know are egotistical jackasses. And those are the competent ones!" He laughs.

"But I have seen my share of battle. I was in the Taldan army before I left to join the Pathfinders and then found my way back to the Eagle Knights while serving at the Worldwound." He shudders. "The things I saw there still give me nightmares."

He sighs. "But the uniform can be nice. Girls like it." A grin creeps back to his face.

Liberty's Edge

Male Gnome Summoner 9 [ HP 84/84 | AC 22/14/19 | Fort +10, Ref +10, Will +10 (+2 vs. illusions) | Init +4 | Perception +10] {mage armor} Summons-V 3/9 - {bralani 84/84 } Whiskers 66/66 AC27 {I summoned, -1 neg level }

Wembly's smile turns to a look of confusion.

Why would you loan your uniform to girls? Can they use it for something? Or maybe as a disguise? I bet it can help get them into officer clubs and stuff I bet.

He seems to lose his train of thought.

And you have been to the World Wound too? From what I have seen and heard, that is not a nice place. Too many demons running around for my preference. And they were not happy with our Assault or when we took back a big Weapon from them.
But not that anybody asked me for my opinion. But if they did, I would let them know. Good thing there are armies like the Eagle Knights serving to help keep them in check. I am a big fan of Eagle Knights. Way better than Hell Knights. I have met both, so that is something I can speak about for hours.

Sovereign Court

CG Elf Arcanist 9 | HP: 65/65 | AC: 18(19) (T: 13, F: 15(16)) | CMB: +3, CMD: 16 | F: +6, R: +7, W: +8 | Init: +9 | Perc: +12 | Speed 30 | Arcane Reservoir remaining: 7/15 | Low-light vision | Reroll | Conditions: Mage Armor

Erlathan rubs the tentacles on his chin, deep in thought. "Wembly, was it? Tell me more about Whiskers. Is he your eidolon? And I don't mean that in an I love pseudocats and must know everything about them kind of way, but more because he seems magical, and magic is, well, my thing," snapping his fingers with a coy grin on his face, a rush of cold air billows from Erlathan's body. He snaps his fingers to cycle through three other auras, before finally shutting it down.

"I'm looking forward to using this little aura out in the field. Never know when something might resist a certain kind of energy, or three," he smiles.

The Exchange

Internal Alchemist 8 HP67/67 Fast Healing 4/4 | AC 20, T 12, FF 20 Uncanny Dodge| Fort +11, Ref +10, Will +5 | Init +2 | Perc +12, 60' Darkvision, Bombs (13/13) Fly (8/8) Effects: Ant Haul

A large and obese orc makes his way down the hallway, a very stuffed knapsack over his shoulder and a leaf covered spear in one hand along with an apple in the other. His green toes sticking out of his earthy leather shoes, tracking mud as he goes.

"Hey dare, I'mma Luurg. We all meetin' big bossmang right?" He leans forward to read the door, curious if he is indeed at the right place.

Liberty's Edge

Male Human Inquisitor of Erastil 9 [hp 69/69; F+11, R+12, W+11 (+2 vs. charms); AC 22/15/17; Init +7, Perception +14, Sense Motive +16]

Kargen smirks at Wembly, trying not to laugh. "Yeah, Eagle Knights rule, Hellknights drool. Wait, were you there too? You seem to know a lot about the groups up there."

He looks over to Luurg. "Yeah, we're waiting for the VC. I'm Kargen. This is Wembly." He glances down at the half-orc's belly. "Hey, you some sort of tracker?"

Scarab Sages

CN Elf Arcane Trickster 3/Arcanist 4/Brawler 1 HP 50/50 | AC: 20 | T:14 | FF:15 |CMD:18 | F:+10, R:+14, W:+9 (Energy Resistance Cold:5) | Init:+5 | Perc:+17 | Arcane Reservoir remaining 6/7

Uh, is this the right place? You hear from behind you. A lithe female elf strides into the room. She has a crossbow on her back along with a haversack and various pouches, scroll cases, and other gear at her waist.

Why hello there! The blond flashes you a mischievous smile. What, no snacks or drinks?! Looks like I'll need to buy a cold weather outfit for this one I bet.

Scarab Sages

F Dwarf Wizard 10

A sallow dwarf bustles in. Her pack has taken on a distinct square shape from being crammed with her wizard's spellbooks. "Agate," she says, without ceremony. "Of Highhelm."

Prepared spells for the day wrote:


Cantrips: Read Magic, Detect Magic, Spark, Flare
L1: True Strike, Magic Missile x2, Burning Hands x2, Feather Fall
L2: See Invisibility, Knock, Scorching Ray x2, Spider Climb, Apport Object
L3: Blood Biography, Dispel Magic, Tongues, Greater Stunning Barrier, Cloak of Winds
L4: Locate Creature, Greater Flaming Sphere x2, Secure Shelter
L5: Prying Eyes, Fire Snake

The Exchange

Internal Alchemist 8 HP67/67 Fast Healing 4/4 | AC 20, T 12, FF 20 Uncanny Dodge| Fort +11, Ref +10, Will +5 | Init +2 | Perc +12, 60' Darkvision, Bombs (13/13) Fly (8/8) Effects: Ant Haul

Luurg looks up at Kargen, nodding slowly at his question "Yup, Luurg real gud tracker, real gud." He reaches out a fat handshake in greeting.

Almost mid chew though he's greeted by the blonde woman and her need for snacks. Lucky for her Luurg is NEVER without a snack. "You need snacks? Luurg got SNACKS!" Without another word he takes off his pack, and oddly pulls out a hammock.

"Hope fruity snacks ok, ok?" He clicks his boots together in a mighty hop and instantly, all around him a handful of fruit trees pop up out of the floor, reaching all the way to the ceiling. He smiles and ties up his hammock between a pair of apple trees.

"Lotta snacks now. Eat all you want, Luurg got moar." He waves the Dwarven woman to join in on the eating.

Verdant Boots:

Price 12,000 gp; Aura faint transmutation; CL 5th; Weight 2 lbs.
The wearer of these boots can, on command three times per day, cause her current square to sprout a thick canopy of fruit-bearing or otherwise edible plants. These plants count as difficult terrain and grant cover to any Medium or smaller creature within the square. They also provide enough food to sustain two Medium creatures for 1 full day. While the plants can grow on surfaces that would not normally support vegetation such as a wooden floor or cave stone, they cannot sprout on surfaces explicitly hostile to vegetation. The plants are usually of a sort common to the terrain or climate of the area in which they were produced. They disappear after 24 hours or when completely harvested, whichever comes first.

Sovereign Court

CG Elf Arcanist 9 | HP: 65/65 | AC: 18(19) (T: 13, F: 15(16)) | CMB: +3, CMD: 16 | F: +6, R: +7, W: +8 | Init: +9 | Perc: +12 | Speed 30 | Arcane Reservoir remaining: 7/15 | Low-light vision | Reroll | Conditions: Mage Armor

Take 10 for 27 Spellcraft to ID those boots

Erlathan is aghast when the unsightly orc walks into the room, but seeing the magical fruit appear quickly changes his mind. "Verdant boots, quite useful for travel, and always nice to have a variety of healthy food to eat. Keeps the mind sharp, even. Good to have you along."

The scrawny elf regards the dwarf of few words with intrigue. "Agate of Highhelm, I'm Erlathan, er... of Kyonin, though its been decades since I've been back. Long story. And don't mind the appearance, also a long story," he points to the tentacles dangling from his chin. "I know a wizard when I see one, so tell us, what's your specialty? Or why not show us." He leans back against one of Luurg's trees and waits.

Scarab Sages

CN Elf Arcane Trickster 3/Arcanist 4/Brawler 1 HP 50/50 | AC: 20 | T:14 | FF:15 |CMD:18 | F:+10, R:+14, W:+9 (Energy Resistance Cold:5) | Init:+5 | Perc:+17 | Arcane Reservoir remaining 6/7

Oooh, yea! Instant fruit trees. That's quite a nice trick you got there Luurg, and I love tricks!! Shaneene says in awe.

Nice to meet you Agate.

Looks like you might be a spellcaster yourself Erlathan of Kyonnin, she says with a smile.

With brief incantations and gestures, Shaneene stores a Shocking Grasp in her Handaxe for later.

Liberty's Edge

Male Human Inquisitor of Erastil 9 [hp 69/69; F+11, R+12, W+11 (+2 vs. charms); AC 22/15/17; Init +7, Perception +14, Sense Motive +16]

Kargen picks an apple and a pear from the trees Luurg conjures up. "Fascinating, Luurg! What happens to the trees afterward? Do they stay in place? Are you leaving behind a wealth of fruit everywhere you go?" He tentatively tastes the apple and finds it crisp and juicy.

Liberty's Edge

Male Gnome Summoner 9 [ HP 84/84 | AC 22/14/19 | Fort +10, Ref +10, Will +10 (+2 vs. illusions) | Init +4 | Perception +10] {mage armor} Summons-V 3/9 - {bralani 84/84 } Whiskers 66/66 AC27 {I summoned, -1 neg level }

Wembly smiles and cheers

” Wow! That is the awesomest thing ever! And these are real fruit like not just illusions or that yucky paste the priests try to create from their create food spell?!“

Grand Lodge

Fate in the Future ||| xxx2 ||| xxx3

Before Luurg can stand up for the deliciousness of his produce, a gnome enters the room and looks over the assembled crew with her discerning eye and terse smile. Marking off six checkmarks on a notepad, she steps over to a panel of labeled and colorful pulleys near the entrance -- pulling the one labeled Library. The cord goes taut and is soon followed by the excited and friendly barking of a large dog in the room beyond.

The door swings opens and a keen-eyed half-orc man rises from his desk with a broad smile, and a large husky leaps up and bounds across the room. “Welcome to Iceferry, Pathfinders! I am Venture-Captain Bjersig Torrsen, head of this Lodge. This is Mahki.” He indicates the husky that is circulating around the room, sniffing and nuzzling those who enter to sit.

“I’ll come right to the point,” Bjersig begins, his eyes flitting back and forth around the room constantly. “I’ve received a concerning report from one of my agents up on the Whitefang Peninsula. Svala Ice-rider is a meticulous researcher who has been combing the Lodge’s records for the last year. She stumbled upon an old myth recorded by an Ulfen explorer in contact with the Erutaki clans around Whitefang Bay. Few people seem to devote any time to studying the Erutaki culture, but Svala’s mother is of Varki descent and so she has a personal connection. She’s become my expert on Varki and Erutaki culture."

“Svala found an ancient lore-song that had been translated and recorded by Ulfen traders, which spoke of a glacier on the Whitefang Peninsula which protected the lands from the coming of the dark of winter. It sounded like a typical local legend, but Svala came to believe that something had been lost in the translation. And she was correct.”

He shakes his head in amazement.

“The Erutaki often tell their stories through oral histories passed down within a tribe or village, and the oral languages of the Crown of the World have so many local variations and tonal nuances, not to mention culturally specific similes and metaphors, that direct translation is often flawed. The Ulfens who recorded the story probably used magical aid to understand it, but many of the Erutaki oral histories use allegory and cultural keystones to quickly convey complex concepts that can be easily misunderstood when literally translated. This find was hidden in plain sight for hundreds of years, just waiting for someone who could comprehend it.”

Bjersig moves to a large map of northern Avistan on the wall, gesturing to illustrate his words. “Svala’s expedition left three months ago. They sailed to the edge of the ice pack and then went inland by dogsled. It’s a hard trip in the winter, but any excavation is best done while the permafrost is still frozen. In spring, the entire region turns into a muddy swamp, and any dig sites would run the risk of collapsing.”

He pulls a velvet cord beside his desk, and the wizened gnome quickly reappears at the door. “Please send in Kuokei.”

The gnome woman nods and disappears down the hallway.

“Svala has been sending regular reports by messenger, but her last report indicates things have taken an ominous turn. She and her team have uncovered a large ice structure buried under the snow, as well as signs of an Erutaki village, but the site is contaminated with blackfrost, a toxic and corrosive substance that blows down from strange ruins at the north pole. What’s worse, there seem to be a number of unusual undead creatures also buried in the snow, of a kind never before seen. Svala is worried that perhaps there were more translation errors, ones she missed, that might shed light on what this site is and how it should be handled.”

Suddenly a large and majestic snow-white owl flies into the room, landing to perch on the back of the venture-captain’s chair.

“Ah, here is Kuokei,” the venture-captain proclaims, indicating the owl. “She arrived last night with a missive from Svala, requesting assistance. And so, we finally come to the details of your assignment.”

He slides a large bundle of papers and journals across the desk.

“This packet contains copies of Svala’s notes and the original Ulfen translation of the myth. Svala thinks that she may have missed more of the story, or that the rest of the Ulfen translation may also be faulty. I need you to take these notes to Aaminiut, the largest Erutaki village in the Crown of the World. Speak with the elders there and see what their oral histories reveal about the site that the Ulfen translations don’t. Send the information with Kuokei off to Svala at once, and then follow at best speed yourself to offer Svala what help you can before the thaw comes. I’ve got a longship (the Ulfen longship Rimedrake under Captain Brynhild Redaxe) ready to sail with the tide, with enough food and supplies to get you to Aaminiut. Resupply there, meet with the elders, and arrange some local land transportation and supplies to get you to the site. Now, any questions?”

DC 10+ Knowledge Geography:
The Crown of the World is an ice-covered land that joins the continents of Avistan and Tian Xia over Golarion’s northern pole.

DC 15+ Knowledge Geography:
Even in summer, the temperature is close to freezing, and winter brings some of the coldest temperatures experienced on Golarion.

DC 20+ Knowledge Geography:
Travelers in the far north should watch out for snowstorms and ensure they keep dry. Being wet is like lowering the temperature from cold weather to severe cold, or severe cold to extreme cold.

DC 25+ Knowledge Geography:
The Erutaki village of Aaminiut is built on stilts over the Taraska River delta along the western coast. It is the largest Erutaki settlement, and serves as the main point of trade between the Erutaki and Ulfen peoples.

New pictures in the handout

The Exchange

Internal Alchemist 8 HP67/67 Fast Healing 4/4 | AC 20, T 12, FF 20 Uncanny Dodge| Fort +11, Ref +10, Will +5 | Init +2 | Perc +12, 60' Darkvision, Bombs (13/13) Fly (8/8) Effects: Ant Haul

Luurg hops up from his hammock, knocking several apples from the boughs as he does so. He looks at them longingly as they're ushered into the VC's office. It only takes a few moments for Luurg to recognize the Ulfen with the dog, kneeling down to give it a big sticky hug "Hey dare doggy dog named Mahki! Gib big ole Luurg kisses ok? Ok." And then goes about allowing far too much dog tongue on his big green orc face.

Finally he stands and offers a big handshake to Bjersig "Luurg here not so long go, 'member?" He smiles, showing off his impressive set of pearly white orc teeth. None of this world have ever seen a finer, cleaner set. 9-11 The Jarlsblood Witch Saga

"Hrm." His brow furrows as he listens on to the briefing, nodding on occasion "Yup, frozen tundra not so frozen in summer time. Nice n cool on toeses, but slow walk. Lotta buzzies biting." He slaps the back of his neck a few times to get the point across to anyone that isn't so outdoorsy.

"Luurg good guide mang, keep deez ones real safe from da cold n stuffs, ok? Ok. I make sure dey not go too far up and end up in Tian Xia Land, no problem." He nods, then gets slightly concerned when they need to speak with the locals. He remembers how well that went for him the last time he was here, and his good friend Shee'lur wasn't here to help.

"Anybuddy speak the local words up here? Luurg not knowing them... be real hard if we not speak local words to small tribes."

K Geography Untrained: Oh how I wish I was!: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18

Sovereign Court

CG Elf Arcanist 9 | HP: 65/65 | AC: 18(19) (T: 13, F: 15(16)) | CMB: +3, CMD: 16 | F: +6, R: +7, W: +8 | Init: +9 | Perc: +12 | Speed 30 | Arcane Reservoir remaining: 7/15 | Low-light vision | Reroll | Conditions: Mage Armor

Kn. Geography: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (14) + 11 = 25
"Matter of fact, I may know a thing or two," Erlathan idly leans back against the wall.

"The Crown of the World is an ice-covered land that joins the continents of Avistan and Tian Xia over Golarion’s northern pole. Even in summer, the temperature is close to freezing, and winter brings some of the coldest temperatures experienced on Golarion." He clears his throat, before continuing.

"And now, for the more important details. Travelers in the far north should watch out for snowstorms and ensure they keep dry. Being wet is like lowering the temperature from cold weather to severe cold, or severe cold to extreme cold. Cold weather outfits, perhaps? Then again, we could just, you know, endure elements." He snickers.

"Finally, I recall that the Erutaki village of Aaminiut is built on stilts over the Taraska River delta along the western coast. It is the largest Erutaki settlement, and serves as the main point of trade between the Erutaki and Ulfen peoples."

Liberty's Edge

Male Gnome Summoner 9 [ HP 84/84 | AC 22/14/19 | Fort +10, Ref +10, Will +10 (+2 vs. illusions) | Init +4 | Perception +10] {mage armor} Summons-V 3/9 - {bralani 84/84 } Whiskers 66/66 AC27 {I summoned, -1 neg level }

That is so cool! I mean well, good that you know it. I guess being cool isn't as great up here in the tundra and all. Well, it is good if you are a creature that like the cold. But for normal folk, well folk like us that are not locals, then not-being cold is cool.

Wembly looks around to see if anyone else knows anything more.

We should definitely visit that village and trade post or point or settlement. Whatever it is.

Liberty's Edge

Male Human Inquisitor of Erastil 9 [hp 69/69; F+11, R+12, W+11 (+2 vs. charms); AC 22/15/17; Init +7, Perception +14, Sense Motive +16]

Kargen nods as Erlathan gives the run down of the area. "Good to know. I've been to Irrisen before, but not the Crown of the World. I can't imagine a place even colder. I might look into both some warm clothes and some magic.

As for the language, I don't even know what they speak up there. Skald? But whatever odd dialect, I have the spell that can help me speak it."

Kargen will buy some cold weather gear as well as a wand of endure elements for 2PP, unless someone else has one and is feeling generous. Kargen can't actually use the wand, but this might be a long trip.

Scarab Sages

CN Elf Arcane Trickster 3/Arcanist 4/Brawler 1 HP 50/50 | AC: 20 | T:14 | FF:15 |CMD:18 | F:+10, R:+14, W:+9 (Energy Resistance Cold:5) | Init:+5 | Perc:+17 | Arcane Reservoir remaining 6/7

How interesting! Shaneene listens with rapt attention, nodding sometimes, or looking around in surprise.

Shaneene thinks about the the unusual weapons they found in 9-11 The Jarlsblood Witch Saga

Spoiler:
A mighty Orc Hornbow made of the horns of great beasts and a spiky Butchering Axe

Kn Nature: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (8) + 11 = 19
Do I know more about that owl?

Can you tell us more about the Ulfen people and the Erutaki clans?

After a response she starts eagerly flipping through Svala’s notes, reading some of them aloud.

She will buy some cold weather gear as well before setting out.

Scarab Sages

F Dwarf Wizard 10

"Magic I can provide," Agate says. "I'm not too familiar with the languages up there, but I know some bits and pieces that may help."

Agate has a wand of endure elements already which she is willing to use on everyone. She can prepare extra copies of Tongues on the day they plan to interview the elders if no one in the party speaks Erutaki.

Liberty's Edge

Male Gnome Summoner 9 [ HP 84/84 | AC 22/14/19 | Fort +10, Ref +10, Will +10 (+2 vs. illusions) | Init +4 | Perception +10] {mage armor} Summons-V 3/9 - {bralani 84/84 } Whiskers 66/66 AC27 {I summoned, -1 neg level }

Wembly will pick up his own wand of endure elements since he has himself and Whiskers to attend.

Yep, ditto! Good idea.

Grand Lodge

Fate in the Future ||| xxx2 ||| xxx3

Mahki enjoys the reunion with Luurg far too much and has to be calmed discreetly by his master. Bjersig continuously scans the room visually to ensure he is not missing any questions or comments and is excited to answer Shaneene's questions about the peoples of the Crown.

“So Erutaki is the name by which most nations south of the Crown refer to the native human populations of those northernmost reaches, but they are not a single people—there are hundreds of unique clans with similar language and culture. They share some ethnic roots with the Varisians and Tian. Some of the clans are nomadic, following the caribou migration and living in tent camps; others build semi-permanent villages on rivers or near the coast. Most are willing to trade with foreigners, particularly for metal weapons or tools, which can be difficult to obtain otherwise.”

As he talks, the Venture Captain punctuates his speech with modified versions of the Pathfinder hand signals. "While the Varki are themselves a mix of the Erutaki and Varisian peoples. Great hunters, explorers, and whalers. They also make some of the most impressive scrimshaw art — intricate carvings on bone or narwhal ivory.”

Turning to remark about your preparations, Bjersig adds. “It’s three weeks to Aaminiut, and between the sea spray and the wind, it’ll be bitter cold. Inside the ship you’ll be fine, but out on the land you’ll freeze within a few days without proper gear. The magical protection you'll be equipping is best, but thick furs and a hardy constitution’s the next best thing. From Aaminiut north, it gets really cold—metal gets so cold you’ll freeze your fingers onto your sword. There’s a reason the Erutaki use wooden-hafted weapons and tools! Oh, and I hope you like dogs as much as my friend Luurg does … because they’ll be pulling you all the way to the Whitefang Peninsula.”

DC 10 Knowledge Nature about the owl:
Kuokei is a snowy owl, a hardy bird of prey with sharp talons and beak.

The Exchange

Internal Alchemist 8 HP67/67 Fast Healing 4/4 | AC 20, T 12, FF 20 Uncanny Dodge| Fort +11, Ref +10, Will +5 | Init +2 | Perc +12, 60' Darkvision, Bombs (13/13) Fly (8/8) Effects: Ant Haul

Shaneene will recognize the spiked axe Luurg has strapped across his back. He keeps it mostly covered up though, almost like he avoids using it if he can.

"Gud pup, real gud pup! Mebe he come wid us Bossmang? Luurg keep real gud care of Mahki!" He smiles and resists the urge to rile the dog back up, at least for the moment.

All this talk of the cold reminds Luurg of the gear he bought on his last trip to the north, and he pulls out a furry bomber hat and mittens. "Luurg all gud, got nice warm hat and hand warmers!"

Luurg has cold weather gear and endurance. I'll take my chances with that if people don't mind, he doesn't know endure elements, but can use the wands for people. If things don't go his way I may beg a charge or two.

Sovereign Court

CG Elf Arcanist 9 | HP: 65/65 | AC: 18(19) (T: 13, F: 15(16)) | CMB: +3, CMD: 16 | F: +6, R: +7, W: +8 | Init: +9 | Perc: +12 | Speed 30 | Arcane Reservoir remaining: 7/15 | Low-light vision | Reroll | Conditions: Mage Armor

"Three weeks!" Erlathan balks at the trip duration. "I dare say one would get used to the cold after being in it for that long, but that's simply not true. Best to use magic, or more pragmatic means, I guess." He shivers just thinking of it, not one to enjoy being inconvenienced. At all.

He takes out his spellbook and begins fanning through it. "Ah, there it is. Rest assured, I can prepare and cast endure elements daily."

Erlathan doesn't mind spending his level 1 spells to cast Endure Elements six times daily, though it would tap him out of level 1 spells each day. Might be good to use 3 or 4 castings in addition to the wands.

Liberty's Edge

Male Human Inquisitor of Erastil 9 [hp 69/69; F+11, R+12, W+11 (+2 vs. charms); AC 22/15/17; Init +7, Perception +14, Sense Motive +16]

With potentially three weeks (not that I think we need it everyone of those days), Kargen will get his own wand.

Knowledge, Nature: 10 + 9 = 19

Kargen watches the snowy owl, half-hearing the cultural explanation. He enjoyed watching one of the natural world's keen hunters. "Hunters, good. Do they worship Erastil? Those who spend time in the wilds have a certain respect for each other no matter the differences in culture or climate. I would love to have an chance to buy some of these narwhal carvings and hunt caribou with them." He makes a mental note to try and find fur gloves that won't impede him using his bow, but that also won't risk frostbite to his fingers. Perhaps a thinner fur-lined glove for shooting and a thicker outer glove for the rest of the time.

Scarab Sages

F Dwarf Wizard 10

Agate looks uncomfortable at the mention of weeks on a dogsled, but mumbles something about making do.

The Exchange

Internal Alchemist 8 HP67/67 Fast Healing 4/4 | AC 20, T 12, FF 20 Uncanny Dodge| Fort +11, Ref +10, Will +5 | Init +2 | Perc +12, 60' Darkvision, Bombs (13/13) Fly (8/8) Effects: Ant Haul

"Dogs gonna pull Luurg around on a sled?" If you've never seen a fat orc do the jig, you can cross that off your to do list as Luurg gets jiggy with excitement. "Deez dogs purdy big? Luurg big. Luurg heavy. Luurg not get bigger on sled, dogs not big nuff fer dat."

"Luurg ready, what else we need? Anybuddy?"

Scarab Sages

CN Elf Arcane Trickster 3/Arcanist 4/Brawler 1 HP 50/50 | AC: 20 | T:14 | FF:15 |CMD:18 | F:+10, R:+14, W:+9 (Energy Resistance Cold:5) | Init:+5 | Perc:+17 | Arcane Reservoir remaining 6/7

If you let me copy Endure Elements from your spellbook to mine I'll take care of casting it on myself.

Shaneene thinks for a minute. Know anything more about these "unusual undead?" I'll make a copy of these maps. What time does the tide go out?

Grand Lodge

Fate in the Future ||| xxx2 ||| xxx3

Bjersig scratches the dog's head. "I'm sure Mahki would be in good hands, my friend, but I need her here to be my ears."

"As far as their worship, Kargen, I'm sure they would certainly be open to the values of Old Deadeye, if not by knowing him by another name."

Turning to Shaneene's query, the Venture Captain grows serious again. “Svala’s team has only seen a couple, but they seem to be some kind of undead particularly well-adapted to the ice and cold, perhaps frozen victims of the snowstorms that covered this site. Svala’s report says their touch ‘freezes the skin and the soul.’ While Svala can wax poetic, I believe her description is intended to be quite literal.”

Sensing your eagerness to begin, he concludes the meeting "Well, the Rimedrake is already loaded with all of the food and water required for your journey, and it leaves in the morning. Enjoy your night here at the lodge and may the sun not set on your journey."

The Exchange

Internal Alchemist 8 HP67/67 Fast Healing 4/4 | AC 20, T 12, FF 20 Uncanny Dodge| Fort +11, Ref +10, Will +5 | Init +2 | Perc +12, 60' Darkvision, Bombs (13/13) Fly (8/8) Effects: Ant Haul

Luurg nods in agreement. "Dog ears real gud. Nose gud too. Good company too. We be back, Luurg always come back." He smiles and offers a handshake before heading out to pick his fruit.

Sovereign Court

CG Elf Arcanist 9 | HP: 65/65 | AC: 18(19) (T: 13, F: 15(16)) | CMB: +3, CMD: 16 | F: +6, R: +7, W: +8 | Init: +9 | Perc: +12 | Speed 30 | Arcane Reservoir remaining: 7/15 | Low-light vision | Reroll | Conditions: Mage Armor

"Yes, very well, let's get this over with," Erlathan mock shivers, turning in to rest for the evening.

Grand Lodge

Fate in the Future ||| xxx2 ||| xxx3

For those of you who have never seen an Ulfen longship, it is truly a sight to behold. It is long and lean with a huge linnorm head forming its prow and a cascade of shields flanking its sides, each emblazoned with the hereditary markings of dozens of Ulfen families. The Captain, Brynhild Redaxe, is herself a formidable sight. Six feet in height and powerfully built, she pulls you aboard with a welcoming smile.

Exiting the harbor of Iceferry, with greater Karlsgard framed in the distance across the river, you see the familiar white feathers of Kuokei set up in the knotted wood beam at the top of the main sail as she settles in for the long voyage.

Let me know if you have any particular actions or habits on the voyage to Aaminiut

------------------------------

On the tenth day out from Iceferry, a large, irregular peak like a detached mountain comes into view.

The captain grumbles "Hmm. It is quite strange for ice to be seen this far south so early in the year — perhaps there will be an early spring".

The Exchange

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Internal Alchemist 8 HP67/67 Fast Healing 4/4 | AC 20, T 12, FF 20 Uncanny Dodge| Fort +11, Ref +10, Will +5 | Init +2 | Perc +12, 60' Darkvision, Bombs (13/13) Fly (8/8) Effects: Ant Haul

"Hey dare Captain, I'mma Luurg!" He pronounces his name with a very deep, guttoral sound. Drawing out the Uuuuurrrgg. "Good to meet you and yer nice boat!" He climbs up onto the ship and begins to look around, those familiar with Luurg know he's looking for a good place to set up camp.

Luurg's daily routine on the ship can best be described as extremely helpful with a hefty side dish of slovenly. Once he's found a comfortable spot to erect his hammock he does so and claims the nearby area as his 'nest', leaving piles of discarded fruit corpses and relieving himself in plant pots or likely in the ship's case: a bucket.

Each evening he summons a small orchard of fruit trees, and with the help of the crew and other Pathfinders quickly picks the fruit so the trees disappear and don't mess with the ship. He keeps one day's worth of fruit to feed himself and create his extracts. The other two days are given to whoever enjoys fresh fruit. Before going on board though Luurg brings a crate of rum, enough for a bit of fruity island drink making for all his new friends. "Don't ferget the 'brellas, gotta have dem tings er the drink not look right!"

Its quickly evident that Luurg is quite comfortable and fond of ships, relaying that he spent lots of his childhood sneaking on and off of them. Doing what exactly he won't say, but you get the feeling it wasn't usually very legal. People will also notice that Luurg doesn't sleep all that much, volunteering for most of the night watches, nor does he consume anything that is not fruit based. While this diet seems to keep him happy, he is quite fat and his bathroom time is far from pretty...

--------

Luurg looks over to the horizon at the peak "Dat not supposed to be dare? Want Luurg to fly over and look? Ok? Ok." He ruffles up his large butterfly wings and prepares to take flight. Ya, he's got butterfly wings, I may have forgotten to mention that earlier.

Luurg prepares and consumes ant haul each morning. You never know when he'll need to airmail in a few passengers via his flight.

Liberty's Edge

Male Human Inquisitor of Erastil 9 [hp 69/69; F+11, R+12, W+11 (+2 vs. charms); AC 22/15/17; Init +7, Perception +14, Sense Motive +16]

Kargen looks impressed and nods. "Yeah, Luurg, that's not a bad idea. Uh, will those wings actually carry you? I mean, you are kinda...big?" He looks back out to the ice. "But it would be nice to see if anything is wrong over there."

Scarab Sages

CN Elf Arcane Trickster 3/Arcanist 4/Brawler 1 HP 50/50 | AC: 20 | T:14 | FF:15 |CMD:18 | F:+10, R:+14, W:+9 (Energy Resistance Cold:5) | Init:+5 | Perc:+17 | Arcane Reservoir remaining 6/7

At least we won't have to worry about scurvy on this voyage! Thanks Luurg!! Maybe you should wait t'll we're closer though to fly over.

During the voyage Shaneene tries to help the captain out, perhaps copying maps or scrolls or translating if need be. She keeps busy practicing various skills like sleight of hand or disable device in her quarters.

Offers up her spellbook for anyone to copy and hopes others reciprocate.

Spoiler:
1st:Blurred Movement, Bungle, Chill Touch, Comp. Languages, Dazzling Blade, Expeditious Retreat, Feather FAll, Greese, Long Arm, Mage Armor, Shocking Grasp, Snowball, Stunning Barrier, Touch of the Sea, Vanish
2nd: Acid Arrow, Aram Zey's Focus,Blur, Create Pit, Defending Bone, False Life, Glitterdust, Invisibility, Mirror Image, Resist Energy, Scorching Ray, See Invis, Sense Vitals, Tactical Acumen
3rd: Dispel Magic, Displacement, Fireball, Heroism, Slow, Vampiric Touch

Liberty's Edge

Male Gnome Summoner 9 [ HP 84/84 | AC 22/14/19 | Fort +10, Ref +10, Will +10 (+2 vs. illusions) | Init +4 | Perception +10] {mage armor} Summons-V 3/9 - {bralani 84/84 } Whiskers 66/66 AC27 {I summoned, -1 neg level }

Wembly has never been overly fond of ships, but likes the idea of traveling anywhere as part of the adventure of life. Whiskers, however, is terrified of water, so Wembly unsummons the cat and keeps the eidolon in his plane until needed.

This is a great ship! Whiskers, never liked sailing, but would probably have loved seeing this. Lots of ice doesn't seem that unusual? Or I would not have thought so. Do we need to investigate? I cannot fly much myself, but can get Whiskers or a friend or two.

How far is the strange ice from the longship?

Scarab Sages

F Dwarf Wizard 10

Agate arranges to meet Shaneene with her own spellbooks belowdecks one evening early in the voyage. She quirks an eyebrow at the more unusual spells in Shaneene's collection.

"I'll trade you level for level," she offers.

Agate would like to copy Acid Arrow, Snowball, and Aram Zey's Focus, and will let Shaneene copy 5 levels of spells from her books in exchange. See Agate's character page for her full list.

Scarab Sages

CN Elf Arcane Trickster 3/Arcanist 4/Brawler 1 HP 50/50 | AC: 20 | T:14 | FF:15 |CMD:18 | F:+10, R:+14, W:+9 (Energy Resistance Cold:5) | Init:+5 | Perc:+17 | Arcane Reservoir remaining 6/7

Very well.

Shaneene copies Endure Elements and Greater Invisibility.

Sovereign Court

CG Elf Arcanist 9 | HP: 65/65 | AC: 18(19) (T: 13, F: 15(16)) | CMB: +3, CMD: 16 | F: +6, R: +7, W: +8 | Init: +9 | Perc: +12 | Speed 30 | Arcane Reservoir remaining: 7/15 | Low-light vision | Reroll | Conditions: Mage Armor

BLEEECHHHH

"Uhmph.... I never was one for travel by sea," Erlathan wipes away the last bits of undigested food from his chin. "And of course, I did not think to prepare Fly today to float above, and avoid the motion of this awful water seasaw. Even if I did, it doesn't last long enough to be worth it." He dry heaves over the side of the ship. Even strong mages weren't immune to seasickness.

"Say, Luurg, got anything for a, er, weak stomach?"

The Exchange

Internal Alchemist 8 HP67/67 Fast Healing 4/4 | AC 20, T 12, FF 20 Uncanny Dodge| Fort +11, Ref +10, Will +5 | Init +2 | Perc +12, 60' Darkvision, Bombs (13/13) Fly (8/8) Effects: Ant Haul

Luurg smiles and gives Shaneene a high five "Scurvy one of da worst diseases ever made. Luurg not want anybuddy to get dat one!"

Luurg rubs his belly, deep in thought at Erlathan's quiery "I gut deez... help wid too much booziness... mebe dey help with yer tum tum? If not Luurg mix you up gud potion ok? Ok."

Alchemist's Kindness

Grand Lodge

Fate in the Future ||| xxx2 ||| xxx3

Luurg takes to the air with his beautiful wings and scouts out the lonely iceberg. He returns with a shrug - "No newz is good newz".

-----------------------------

On the thirteenth day out from Iceferry, the wind picks up and grey clouds begin to gather overhead. Inside the ship, you can be protected and warmed by the small braziers that keep the temperature at a bearable (though not particularly comfortable) 40 degrees. Thinking ahead, the captain offers Kuokei refuge in her cabin for the duration of the day-long winter storm.

--------------------------------

After 21 days at sea, the Rimedrake arrives off the coast of Aaminiut.

DC 15 Knowledge Geography or Nature:
A recent storm has blown heavy bergs of pack ice up against the settlement’s only quay, so the ship anchors in the outer harbor to await a landing party.

The village of Aaminiut nestles on several small islands in the delta of the great Taraska River. Many clusters of long wooden houses are grouped around a central courtyard, each building resembling a traditional Ulfen longhouse except for the timbers which support each house rising several feet in the air. Every building in the village is on stilts, with rope and wooden swinging bridges connecting each islet to its neighbors, crossing the multitude of streams which are all that remains of the Taraska River in winter.

“The warmth of the houses can melt the permafrost,” Captain Redaxe says, answering the unasked question. “Keeping them on stilts means the soil underneath doesn’t thaw. Stays hard as a rock and makes a good foundation.”

Near the center of town, in front of a semi-circle of tall, carved wooden poles, villagers gather and watch the ship’s approach with solemn eyes. Several warriors armed with spears push long dugout canoes into the water and begin to paddle towards the ship.

Perhaps recognizing the area, Kuokei takes off from the mast and flies toward the village.

Just wait for the warriors approach or any other actions or preparations?

Liberty's Edge

Male Human Inquisitor of Erastil 9 [hp 69/69; F+11, R+12, W+11 (+2 vs. charms); AC 22/15/17; Init +7, Perception +14, Sense Motive +16]

"Well, here we go. Everybody try to look friendly." Kargen waves to the warriors allowing them to see that he is not preparing for a confrontation. He double-checks that his watertight bag is secured properly. It would not do for his bowstrings to get wet.

The Exchange

Internal Alchemist 8 HP67/67 Fast Healing 4/4 | AC 20, T 12, FF 20 Uncanny Dodge| Fort +11, Ref +10, Will +5 | Init +2 | Perc +12, 60' Darkvision, Bombs (13/13) Fly (8/8) Effects: Ant Haul

Can't fail the K Nature

Luurg looks to the shore, then to the canoes, then to the shore "Oh. Dey comin' to give us a ride in, too much ice blockin da shore fer dis big boat."

Luurg also waves, holding his own spear Leafy in one hand like a walking stick. The greenwood spear has numerous tiny branches with some very unhappy leaves that are mostly frozen at this point.

"Luurg like dat hut stilts. Smrt, real smrt." Luurg does try to get a closer look at the canoes and the men in them on the way out, just be sure they are friendly.

Perception: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (20) + 12 = 32

Sovereign Court

CG Elf Arcanist 9 | HP: 65/65 | AC: 18(19) (T: 13, F: 15(16)) | CMB: +3, CMD: 16 | F: +6, R: +7, W: +8 | Init: +9 | Perc: +12 | Speed 30 | Arcane Reservoir remaining: 7/15 | Low-light vision | Reroll | Conditions: Mage Armor

"Ack, onto a smaller boat!" Erlathan grumbles. The good thing is Luurg's pills worked, and his complexion is no longer as pale.. which isn't saying much. "Best to be sure we're prepared. Never know what might happen, hmm?"

Mage armor

Scarab Sages

CN Elf Arcane Trickster 3/Arcanist 4/Brawler 1 HP 50/50 | AC: 20 | T:14 | FF:15 |CMD:18 | F:+10, R:+14, W:+9 (Energy Resistance Cold:5) | Init:+5 | Perc:+17 | Arcane Reservoir remaining 6/7

At last, some land. I was growing weary of this constant rocking.

K Nature: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (10) + 11 = 21

Shaneene keeps a close eye on the canoes and warriors as they approach.

Shaneene would have cast Mage Armor earlier today.

Scarab Sages

F Dwarf Wizard 10

Agate has adjusted her daily spells a bit.

Prepared spells for the day wrote:


Cantrips: Read Magic, Detect Magic, Spark, Detect Undead
L1: True Strike, Magic Missile x2, Burning Hands x2, Feather Fall
L2: See Invisibility, Knock, Scorching Ray x3, Web
L3: Blood Biography, Dispel Magic, Tongues x2, Greater Stunning Barrier
L4: Locate Creature, Greater Flaming Sphere x2, Secure Shelter
L5: Prying Eyes, Fire Snake

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